When NaLyssa Smith’s trade news was out, the forward couldn’t believe it. Sharing her feelings on social media, Smith wrote, “Never seen this coming,” and also thanked Dallas Wings fans who supported her during her short tenure with the franchise. Many people were also confused about the trade, especially with the return package.
The Dallas Wings received only a 2027 first-round pick for Smith. While this can be seen as a long-term plan for the franchise, the Wings were finally looking solid and winning games, moving up to the 12th position with a 5-13 record. The side won four out of the last six games in two weeks. But the actual reason for Smith’s trade lies within this run only.
Real Reason Behind Dallas Wings’ Trade Of NaLyssa Smith
The Dallas Wings are stepping up in the 2025 season and have already reached 5 wins in just 18 games. With 26 more regular-season games left in the season, the Wings are in a position to improve their record from last season. This can be seen as a positive move for the ‘rebuilding’ side.
An insider, aware of the situation, hinted at a similar point and told ClutchPoints about the ‘real reason.’
“(Smith) may win a championship with Vegas,” the source told ClutchPoints. “She is championship caliber… But Dallas is rebuilding and 2027 first round will be a historic help for our rebuild.”
The source also noted that the Aces needed to add center depth. Nalyssa Smith joined the Wings franchise in 2025 and averaged 6.7 points and 4.9 rebounds per game. Even though the team looked better lately, Smith’s struggles continued. During that winning run, Smith averaged 6.5 points and seven rebounds.
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Before joining the Dallas Wings, Smith averaged 13 points, eight rebounds while spending three seasons with the Indiana Fever. The player was a key figure in the 2024 Fever’s impressive second-half run to the playoffs. So her addition as a backup could be a good move for the championship aspirant Las Vegas Aces. And for the Wings, they will be pleased to keep top picks for their rebuild.
Digging Deep In Nalyssa Smith’s Trade From Dallas Wings
Smith’s departure was not because of a dip in her form, but it was a strategic move by the franchise looking to build for the future. The franchise is currently stacked in the forward position. They added Li Yueru from the Seattle Storm. The team’s other two forwards, Luisa Geiselsoder and Teaira McCowan, are set to return from EuroBasket in the first week of July. This complicates the situation for Nalyssa Smith, who played for nearly half of the game (20 min average).
The Wings front office considered a trio of Yueru, McCowen, and Geiselsoder as more important and impactful, and could use Smith to free up space. Smith’s move will also mean extra game time for their ‘developing’ stars. In a way, the trade worked well for the Dallas Wings and even for the Las Vegas Aces.
Also Read: Dallas Wings Rookie Leads Team To Crucial Win Over Washington Mystics With Season-High Performance